Assessing the Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Suicidal Attempts in Children and Adolescents at Assiut University Children’s Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Suicide attempts among children and adolescents represent a growing public health concern worldwide. Identifying the epidemiological characteristics and associated risk factors for suicidal attempts in this population is essential for developing effective preventive strategies. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Assiut University Children’s Hospital, Egypt, from January to December 2024, among children and adolescents aged 5– 18 years, of both sexes. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status (SES), and risk factors (child abuse, family factors, schoolrelated stressors, bullying, social isolation, and internet/social media use) related to suicidal attempts. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 24.0. Results: Among 13,509 admissions, 34 suicide attempt cases were identified, yielding an incidence of 2.5 per 1,000 admissions. The mean age was 15.1 ± 1.4 years; 79.4% were females and 67.6% were of low socioeconomic status. Previous suicidal ideation was reported by 73.5% of participants. The major risk factors included internet
addiction (91.2%), poor parent–child communication (88.2%), low parental care (67.6%), social isolation (61.8%), school-related problems and bullying (58.8%), and emotional abuse (50%). The most common method of suicide attempt was aluminum phosphide ingestion (38.2%), which was responsible for all deaths (8.8%) in this study.